PIANEMO

The cluster of karst outcrops that seem to just sprout out of the sea called the Wayag islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago in West Papua, have rightfully deserved to be the icon of this fabulous destination that keep all visitors absolutely spellbound.

But yet another smaller version,and no less fascinating,are the hidden cluster of islands known by the local population by the name of Pianemo, sometimes pronounced Panemu. Part of the Gam islands, this cluster is also composed of coral islets surrounded by crystal clear seas where the karst outcrops are covered by green vegetation.

The name “Pianemo” in the local language means harpoon since the islets take the shape of a traditional harpoon head which is normally used by the locals to hunt whales. Under a clear blue sky, you will sail across lagoons where the sea changes color from light turquoise to dark blue nearing the horizon. Through its crystal clear waters the colorful corals at the bottom of the sea are clearly visible from the surface. As the karst corals are still alive, the islands continue to grow higher over time. Seen from above, Pianemo seems to be strewn on a horizontal line.

Along its shores are mangrove forests and a lagoon near the Pianemo outpost which is habitat to sardines. But fishing and swimming here is prohibited since it is a protected area.

At Pianemo, travelers should trek up the hill to obtain the best vantage view on a spectacular scenery of green karst islands surrounded by turquoise blue seas. Swimming in the clear waters of Pianemo undisputedly also provides its own fresh sensation. Pianemo is reached in two hoursby boat from Raja Ampat's largest city called: Waisai

Source: indonesia.travel

Nearest Destination

The village of Arborek is fast rising as a pioneer among the 18 beautiful villages in West Papua that have embarked on developing local regulations for community-based marine conservation, With recently claiming the 1st spot in 2015 Provincial village Competition for West Papua ,the village of Arborek has gained an outstanding reputation among both the local authority and international community. With the assistance of the national and local government, from research centers, and non-government organizations, the local people have succeeded in formulating local regulations.
With a population of only 197, interaction with locals is a stones throw away from a number of Homestay options available on this island.
Finding underwater beauty is not so difficult here. Along the Arborek pier, ...